Residents, community groups and local businesses in Leigh, West Leigh, Belfairs and Eastwood Park can now apply for funding through the Big Sparks small grants scheme.
Big Sparks provides one-off grants to people who want to make their area safer, happier or healthier. Whether it’s a small community project, a neighbourhood event, improvements to a shared space, or an idea that brings people together, this fund is designed to help local people turn good ideas into real action.
Funding available:
- Residents – up to £1,000
- Community groups, charities and businesses – up to £5,000
There are some straightforward conditions. Projects involving buildings, parks or public spaces will need the appropriate permissions in place before applying. Schools are not eligible to apply, although PTAs can if the project benefits the wider community.
Applications are open until 18th February 2026, after which suitable projects will be shortlisted to go forward to a public vote.
If you would like to find out more or talk through your idea, you can attend the drop-in session:
Drop-in anytime 12pm – 4pm
Leigh Community Centre
71–71 Elm Road, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 1SP
This is a great opportunity for local people with bright ideas to get the support they need to make them happen.
Find out more and apply here:
https://yoursay.southend.gov.uk/bigsparks
